The Ubud Food Festival will return to Bali from May 30 to June 1, 2025, marking its 10th anniversary as a leading culinary event in Indonesia. Held annually in the cultural hub of Ubud, this year’s theme is “Heritage,” highlighting the importance of preserving culinary traditions while embracing contemporary interpretations.
Organized by Yayasan Mudra Swari Saraswati, the festival was founded by Janet DeNeefe, who is also known for her work with the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival. Over the years, UFF has grown to include a wide array of programs, from food tastings and workshops to chef collaborations and cultural talks. The festival has become a prominent platform for showcasing Indonesian cuisine to international and local audiences.
“Preserving the wisdom of the past while celebrating the creativity of the present,” said DeNeefe of this year’s theme (The Bali Sun, 2024).
Culinary Events and Highlights
The main venue for UFF 2025 will once again be Taman Kuliner Ubud, a public cultural space where food stalls, cooking demos, etc. will take place. The festival will also include special programs across restaurants and venues throughout Ubud.
Highlights of this year’s program include:
- Cooking Demonstrations by Indonesian and international chefs
- Masterclasses offering hands-on sessions in traditional and modern cooking techniques
- Chef’s Table Dinners and exclusive collaborative dining events
- Food Tours exploring Ubud’s markets and local food businesses
More details and schedules will be available on the official website.
A Focus on Indonesian Culinary Identity
The “Heritage” theme reflects an effort not only to preserve traditional cooking methods and ingredients but also to create space for reinterpretation. The festival often highlights recipes passed down through generations, traditional ingredients, and the stories behind every dish that vary from island to island.
It also provides a space for food entrepreneurs, farmers, and young chefs to innovate and collaborate, keeping Indonesian cuisine dynamic while remaining rooted in culture and tradition.
Sustainability and Community Impact
In recent years, UFF has placed increasing emphasis on sustainability, sourcing locally, minimalizing plastic use, and promoting plant-forward cooking. The festival supports the local economy by giving a spotlight to Ubud’s warungs (small eateries), farmers, and artisans.
UFF is also known for creating inclusive programs, including free events and educational workshops for Balinese youth and culinary students.
Ubud Food Festival continues to be an impactful gathering for celebrating Indonesian cuisine, not just as nutrition or sustenance but highlighting the stories within, the identity, and the memory. As it marks its 10th anniversary, the festival remains a space where heritage and innovation meet, on the plate and beyond.
For more information and updates on Ubud Food Festival, visit www.ubudfoodfestival.com.
Source & feat Image: via UbudFoodFestival.com